Villa de Arevalo (; ), commonly known as simply Villa or Arevalo, is a district in Iloilo City, in the province of Iloilo, on the island of Panay in Western Visayas region, in the Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 55,476 people. Arevalo is situated as the westernmost district of Iloilo City and shares its border with Oton to the west.
One of the notable landmarks in Arevalo is the Santo Niño de Arevalo Parish Church, which houses the third oldest Santo Niño (Infant Jesus) image in the Philippines. Arevalo is often referred to as the "Flower Capital of Iloilo" due to the abundance of potted plants, flowers, bouquets, and wreaths available for purchase. The district is also renowned for its firecrackers and fireworks. One of its prominent attractions is Villa Beach (Playa de Villa de Arevalo) along the coast, which features several resorts and offers outdoor nightlife experiences, including open-air restaurants and bars.
Camiña Balay nga Bato, formerly known as the Avanceña Ancestral House, is a heritage house and restaurant in Arevalo. Constructed in 1865, it stands as one of the top heritage attractions in Iloilo. Visitors can experience the traditional Filipino way of preparing tsokolate (chocolate) while enjoying the historical ambiance of the house.
History
A Spanish settlement was established in 1566 when Spanish conquerors settled in the area between Villa de Arevalo and the neighboring town of Oton. Villa de Arevalo was formally founded as La Villa Rica de Arévalo by Gobernador Ronquillo de Peñalosa in 1581. The name Arévalo was derived from his hometown in Spain, making it one of the first places in the Philippines to be named in Spanish.
The initial population of Villa de Arevalo comprised 80 European colonists of pure Spanish descent, who were joined by 169 Mexican soldiers from Latin America. It became the capital of the province's settlement in 1582. In 1586, it welcomed 20 Spanish Households and the garrison was reinforced by 30 Spanish and/or Mexican soldiers. However, the town faced numerous challenges throughout its history. It was invaded by the British in 1588, followed by raids by Moro pirates in 1600, and further attacks by the Dutch in 1609, 1614, and 1616. These constant threats led to the relocation of the capital near the mouth of the Iloilo River, which is the present-day location of Iloilo City Proper.
On July 16, 1937, Villa de Arevalo, along with the towns of Mandurriao, La Paz, and Molo, was incorporated as a district of Iloilo City. This integration solidified its position as an integral part of the expanding urban center.
Geography
Arevalo is the furthest district to the west in Iloilo City. It is located away from Iloilo City Proper. It shares its borders with the districts of Molo to the east, Mandurriao to the northeast, and the municipality of Oton to the north and west. To the south, the Iloilo Strait and Villa Beach provide natural boundaries. Traversing the district are the rivers of Iloilo and Batiano.
Barangays
The district of Arevalo has a total of 13 barangays.
Bonifacio
Calaparan
Dulonan
Mohon
Quezon
San José
Santa Cruz
Santa Filomina
Santo Domingo
Santo Niño Norte
Santo Niño Sur
Sooc
Yulo Drive
Education
Melchor L. Nava National High School, named after Melchor Nava the former barangay captain of Calaparan. Ramon Avanceña National High School, named after Ramon Avanceña the former Chief Justice. John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University-Arevalo campus, formerly known as Iloilo Maritime Academy.
Culture
Santo Niño de Arevalo Parish
The district's parish, the Santo Niño de Arevalo Parish, is home to the third oldest Santo Niño figure in the Philippines. The church was built in such a way that when seen from above it is shaped like a cross. Adjacent to the church is the Arevalo Convent, a heritage building in a Spanish colonial design. Residing parish priest is Rev. Fr. Jose Gerardo Classico Nufable.
Arevalo Town Fiesta
In January, Arevalo celebrates its town fiesta in honor of the Santo Niño. The festivities take place during the month of January, Fiesta day is held every 3rd Sunday of January. During Fiesta Day households open their doors and prepare food for fiesta goers, friends, visitors, and distant relatives. A fireworks display contest is one of the highlights of the celebration held on the night of the town fiesta.